Load strength of schedule 40 1 1/2 in pipe

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of using schedule 40 PVC pipe to construct a lever system for lifting a kayak. Participants explore the structural integrity and load-bearing capabilities of PVC in this application, considering both theoretical and practical aspects.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes a design for a lever system using PVC pipe to lift a kayak and seeks feedback on its ability to support the weight.
  • Another participant expresses skepticism about finding standard strength values for PVC pipe, noting that it is not primarily designed as a structural member and suggests conducting a failure analysis based on material properties.
  • A subsequent participant inquires about the existence of a formula for failure analysis or whether it is a more general process.
  • One participant advises to approach the problem from first principles, implying a need for foundational understanding rather than relying on existing formulas.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the strength of PVC for the proposed application, and multiple viewpoints regarding the analysis of its structural integrity are presented.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of specific material properties for the PVC being used, the absence of established strength values for this application, and the need for a detailed failure analysis process.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in DIY projects involving lifting mechanisms, those exploring the structural properties of materials, and participants in discussions about engineering principles related to load-bearing designs.

nsternberg
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I am attempting to create a "lever" to lift the front of a 14ft 85lb Kayak up 7ft, then manually slide the Kayak to a rail, and then use the lever to lift the back of the kayak to another 7ft high rail on a truck. I decided to attempt this with PVC sections, creating an "L" the vertical shaft about 7ft+ and the horizontal shaft about the same. I would add a rectangular brace in the bottom corner, and a "T" at the top for the Kayak to rest on and a smaller "T" as a handle of the horizontal end. Additionally add legs to the bottom for stability. The vertical and horizontal posts would have screw joints to allow them to be split in half for storage. I am trying to get the Kayak up on a large truck by myself.I attached a crude drawing. Any thoughts on will the PVC support the weight.
 

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  • Kayak Lever.jpg
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I doubt that you are going to find a tabulated value for the strength because pipe is not intended as a structural member (even though it can be used that way). You will need to find out the material and the physical properties of that material, then do a failure analysis.
 
thanks for the response, is there a formula for failure analysis, or is it a process?
 
Just work from first principles.
 

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